King Salad
A creamy, fruity salad with pineapple, cherries, and citrus flavors, perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing dessert option for a variety of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the Eagle Brand milk, lemon juice, and almond extract in a mixing bowl.
- Add the cherry pie filling, crushed drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, flaked coconut, and nuts to the mixture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour or freeze if desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for some of the Eagle Brand milk. You can also use fresh fruits instead of canned, such as fresh cherries, to enhance flavor. If you prefer a nut-free salad, omit the nuts and add sunflower seeds for crunch. Chill the salad overnight to allow the flavors to meld, which can elevate the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
This King Salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Aunt Gail's Frankfurters and Noodles or can be served as a light dessert. Consider garnishing with additional coconut or nuts for presentation. It’s also a delightful complement to festive meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you freeze the salad, it may change in texture when thawed, so it's best enjoyed fresh. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature after removing from the freezer, and serve chilled for optimal taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of King Salad contains roughly 623 calories, with 8g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it well and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to develop further, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can easily substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They provide a nice crunch without the allergens, making the salad accessible to more guests.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this King Salad is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients. It's a great option for those looking for vegetarian recipes that are both tasty and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).